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At Hanseong University—Taiwan’s most prestigious institution—ten students stand out not for their wealth, but for their warmth. Known as “The Elite Ten,” they are heirs to powerful Asian families who defied expectations by choosing friendship over rivalry. At the heart of their circle is Hana Suriyapark, the half-Korean, half-Thai daughter of a diplomat. Bright, compassionate, and endlessly kind, she unknowingly became the thread that tied nine hearts together back in their high school days. Mali Chansawang, the gentle Thai fashion design student, and Seo Ji-ah, the sharp Korean business major, balance love and ambition with quiet grace. Lin Tawan, the sunny Taiwanese architecture student, brings laughter wherever he goes, while his boyfriend, Li Wei, a reserved Chinese engineering prodigy, keeps the group grounded with calm logic. Ren Takahashi, the poetic Japanese filmmaker, and Mei Ling, a lively Chinese dancer, share an artistic rhythm that charms everyone around them. Then there are the singles—each holding silent affection for Hana in different ways. Kang Min-jun, the teasing Korean coder; Niran Boonsri, the soulful Thai musician; and Zhang Rui, the composed Chinese law student—all adore her quietly, their feelings hidden behind smiles. Bound by shared memories, they’ve grown from curious teens into a chosen family. In their final year, as dreams and love collide, even the strongest friendships will be tested—especially when the heart remembers what the lips never dared to say.The desert sun shimmered against the glass towers of Dubai, painting the skyline gold. From the moment the private jet touched down, laughter echoed through the cabin—ten voices blending like an old melody that had never gone out of tune.
“Welcome to Hana’s royal birthday escape!” Ren Takahashi announced dramatically, stretching his arms as they stepped into the gleaming airport.
Hana Suriyapark laughed, brushing a strand of her long silk-black hair behind her ear. “Royal? Please. I’m just happy we’re all together again.” Her dimples deepened, and for a brief moment, even the noise of the terminal seemed to soften around her.
They had all come from different corners of Asia—Korea, Thailand, China, Japan, Taiwan—but friendship had erased those borders long ago. And now, in their final year of university, this trip was their promise to stay close before life scattered them again.
The drive to the Burj Al Arab’s Royal Suite was filled with teasing, snacks, and endless selfies. Min-jun cracked jokes from the front seat, Niran strummed a soft tune on his guitar, and Mei Ling filmed everyone for her vlog. Li Wei and Lin Tawan shared quiet smiles, while Mali and Ji-ah discussed what Hana might wear for the dinner party.
When they finally entered their massive suite—gold chandeliers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a panoramic view of the sea—everyone froze in awe.
“Okay, this is insane,” Mali breathed, spinning slowly on the marble floor.
“Insanely perfect,” Hana corrected, smiling at her friends.
Ren flopped onto the sofa dramatically. “I call the best view!”
“Too late,” Min-jun grinned, tossing a pillow at him. “The best view is obviously Hana.”
The room erupted in laughter, but Li Wei, ever calm, interrupted. “Before you all start fighting, let’s unpack first.”
“Boring!” Mei Ling sang, pulling Hana toward the balcony. “Come on, birthday girl. You need to see this.”
The ocean stretched endlessly before them, reflecting the fading sunset. Hana leaned on the glass railing, her hair dancing with the breeze. “I can’t believe we’re really here,” she whispered.
Behind her, Niran watched quietly, his guitar case slung across his shoulder, a soft smile tugging at his lips.
“Happy birthday, Hana,” Ji-ah said gently, wrapping an arm around her.
Ten hearts. One friendship. And as the city lights began to glow beneath the Arabian night, they didn’t know this trip would change everything—testing love, loyalty, and the fragile line between friendship and something more.
